Static Phase Converters
Static Phase Converters scored
poorly in all categories of our testing and
research. Static Phase Converters do not actually
convert 1 phase power to 3 phase power, nor do they
generate 3 phase power. Static Phase Converters
generate a 3rd phase for only a matter of seconds during
startup of electric motors, then it will drop out
forcing the motor to continue to run on just 1 phase and
only part of its windings.
Static Phase Converters generally do not properly power any
class of machinery or equipment. They will not in
any way power 3 phase welders, 3 phase battery chargers,
3 phase lasers, or any type of machinery with 3 phase
circuitry. Static Phase Converters also will not
start delta wound 3 phase motors. Some companies
sell Static Phase Converters to start 3 phase
motors. This is a guessing game and a gamble with
your equipment and if it will actually work. It
there is any 3 phase circuitry on your equipment, the
Static Phase Converter will not properly operate
it. The Static Phase Converter may start the
motor, but there is a chance it will also damage the
burn out the motor. For the few motors that a
Static Phase Converter will start, they are only able to
run on part of the windings at 2/3 power, or less, and thus may
also burn out if put under their full rated load.
This is dangerous to both the operator and the machinery
it is intended to operate.
In our research the Static Phase Converters typically
burn out their capacitors within 1 year or less.
This does not meet our quality requirement and is very
poor quality and the downtime that results can be costly
for companies who rely on the operation of their three
phase machinery.
* The above is our experience, however we understand
that there may be innovations in producing newer
combinations of static phase converter technology that
may become available which may have different results.
Ask any manufacturer whose product you are considering
if their static phase converter can provide balanced 3
phase power for use by non-motor type loads too.
Also, if it is for a motor load, ask if it will provide
full rated power for the motor.
Note: In our research we found that some companies
called a product that they sold a "Rotary Phase
Converter" but, in fact, their product is made with
just a control box (or a Static
Converter) and an electric motor. These type
of products were shown though our rigorous testing to be
unsafe and unreliable. There is a tendency for
these "Static
Phase Converter" controlled units to burn out
the equipment it is meant to operate due to phase
imbalances that change with the load. We did not
count these types of products as true Rotary Phase
Converters, but rather in the category of Static
Phase Converter or Build
Your Own Phase Converter Plans.
Click here to read the 3
Phase Converter Type Comparison Chart for more
details on different types of phase converters used to power 3 phase
machinery and equipment.
Remember that not all phase converters are
manufactured to the same high quality standards.
Click here to read our Phase
Converter Purchasing Checklist for guidance in
selecting a quality product from a quality company.
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